Pay hikes ahead for Montgomery County workers

SILVER SPRING, Md. – Montgomery County has been on a rocky fiscal road in recent years, but county employees could see a pay increase — their first in three years.

Montgomery County employees have had a front row seat to tough concessions and belt- tightening measures as the county government in recent years implemented pay freezes, furloughs and layoffs to close budget gaps.

A county spokesman says each employee gave up about $30,000 in salary and benefits since 2010. Employees also started contributing more toward their health and retirement benefits.

County Executive Isiah Leggett says the steps were painful, but necessary. He says the smoke is clearing, and workers should soon expect a pay hike.

According to the Gazette, Leggett proposed a 3.25 percent cost-of-living or general wage increase for most employees. Those eligible for step increases would recent 3.5 percent more.

WTOP’s Nick Iannelli is looking to talk to Montgomery County workers who have been in a pay freeze. If you’ve been affected, email Nick at niannelli@wtop.com